How to leverage ESG reporting to secure financing

How does this work exactly?

Contact us to calculate your company’s carbon footprint

ESG reporting as a pathway to financing

Banks have grown rather fond of businesses that take sustainability seriously. Even a well respected Italian newspaper such as Corriere della Sera has pointed out how Intesa Sanpaolo and PPM offer lending conditions that feel far more appealing to organisations committed to ESG factors.

The reasoning appears almost intuitive, although not always tidy. Environmental and social responsibility often hint at lower risk, steadier governance, smoother relationships with local communities. Sometimes they even mirror a knack for innovation. Because of this, sustainability increasingly slips into the role of a signpost for financial stability.

Competition and supply chains now revolve around ESG considerations that weave themselves right into business models, leaving little room to sidestep them.

Yet banks frequently run into a tricky bit when they try to assess a company’s sustainability profile. Unclear information tends to spark concerns about reputational damage, especially when a lender might unknowingly support a company with questionable ESG practices. Not exactly a pleasant scenario.

ISO 20121 and the value of meaningful data

To avoid wading through ambiguity, lenders are asking for more transparency and a strong sense of accountability. ISO 20121 certification offers a structured way to identify and reduce economic, environmental and social impact within events.

Data collected throughout an event, including things like energy consumption, waste management, transport patterns, supplier choices and so on, can slide seamlessly into ESG reporting. When this information is properly organised, it strengthens a company’s position during applications for loans or subsidies.

Green loans and sustainability-linked incentives

More lenders are linking financing conditions to measurable sustainability achievements, often grounded in shared KPIs. Improved ESG performance can lead to lower interest rates or an assortment of extra incentives.

Green loans and sustainability-linked incentives
More lenders are linking financing conditions to measurable sustainability achievements, often grounded in shared KPIs. Improved ESG performance can lead to lower interest rates or an assortment of extra incentives.
Events certified under ISO 20121 help reinforce these KPIs in a very concrete manner. A low emission festival or an inclusive and accessible conference provides tangible evidence during the reporting process, enhancing a company’s overall score. It becomes a cycle that benefits everyone. The bank reduces reputational risks while the company gains access to more attractive financing terms.

Transparency builds financial trust

ESG reporting, of course, requires discipline. Transparency, consistency and, increasingly, independent verification play an enormous role. Claims about sustainability need actual proof, ranging from data and certifications to thoroughly documented processes.

Companies that work with consultants and event planners experienced in sustainability tend to develop stronger and more consistent reports. With clearer information, conversations with lenders proceed more smoothly since banks need trustworthy material before they approve funding responsibly.

Sustainable events are financially strategic

Organising an ISO 20121 certified event often creates measurable value that supports applications for financing, EU calls for proposals or long term strategic partnerships.
Sometimes a well documented sustainable initiative becomes a surprising magnet for new investment. It seems worth keeping in mind.

Do you need advice on corporate sustainability? Call us!